A Strong Start for Toy Fair Season

October 15, 2012 | In less than four months, worldwide buyers and industry decision-makers will descend upon the Toy Industry Association’s (TIA) 110th American International Toy Fair in New York City to view the hottest new toy and youth entertainment products destined for store shelves in 2013. Registration for buyers and guests is now open; exhibitor registration will open on November 1.

“We’re thrilled to kick off the most wonderful time of the year – Toy Fair season!” said Marian Bossard, TIA vice president of meetings and events. “Although registration just opened, we’re already witnessing a steady climb in numbers, giving us reason to predict that Toy Fair 2013 will build on last year’s growth across nearly all categories.”

Toy Fair 2012 was the most successful U.S.-hosted toy trade show to be held in recent years, welcoming a 3% increase in buyers, a 5% increase in international participants, a 14% jump in licensors and a 23% surge in entertainment executives, who all flocked to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center to see new products from big name companies and exciting new talent.

This year’s show will once again bring tens of thousands of industry professionals to New York City to meet with more than 1,100 exhibiting companies under one roof. In addition, as part of TIA’s year-round “Knowledge Network,” Toy Fair will provide attendees with ample educational and networking opportunities. Building on last year’s licensing panel, Toy Fair will introduce an expanded educational program for licensors and brand owners called “TIA’s Content Connection,” produced in association with EPM Communications (publishers of The Licensing Letter and Youth Markets Alert) and JC Inc. (details to follow in the coming months.) TIA will also hold its annual Toy Safety Compliance Update and Annual General Meeting during Toy Fair week.

“As a crucial stop on the first quarter global toy show circuit, Toy Fair is a ‘must-attend’ event for everyone involved in the business of toys, youth and play,” added Bossard.

Toy Fair will take place from February 10-13, 2013. For complete details on registering, to make hotel reservations, and to learn more about the show, visit ToyFairNY.com. Buyers or trade guests who would like additional information about the show are asked to contact Joan Wyche, TIA director of buyer relations.